Lead Marine Licensing Specialist

The role As a Lead Specialist Permitting Officer , you'll be one of the most senior members of NRW's Marine Licensing Team , responsible for assessing some of the most complex and high-profile marine licence applications . You'll carry out detailed technical assessments, consult with experts, and ensure decisions are robust, defensible, and well-documented . You may also act as an expert witness in public inquiries, supporting evidence-based, transparent regulation.

This is a busy, desk-based role where you'll manage multiple cases simultaneously-balancing deadlines, problem-solving, and applying risk-based decision making under tight statutory timescales. You'll also play a key role in mentoring and supporting the wider team , helping to maintain high technical standards in marine permitting. If you're looking for a role that combines deep technical challenge, environmental impact, and leadership-this is it.

As an organisation we support flexible working. You will be contracted to the nearest NRW office to your home and a suitable hybrid working pattern will be agreed on appointment. Any regular face to face meetings or training will be planned in advance. To make an informal enquiry about this role, please contact Emmer Litt at Interviews will be face to face on 27 February 2026 (details of location will be shared in advance) Successful applicants will be subject to a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) check.

Appointments are normally made within 4 to 8 weeks of the closing date. This role meets the criteria for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker visa route. Natural Resources Wales welcomes applications from non-UK citizens who are eligible to apply under this route, subject to confirmation by the Home Office. Please note that while we may be able to support the Certificate of Sponsorship required for a visa application, the organisation does not cover the cost of the visa itself, including any associated fees for dependants.

The applicant must still meet the UK Skilled Worker Visa Eligibility and Requirement. For further information, please visit:  

About us As the principal environmental regulator for Wales , Natural Resources Wales (NRW) plays a critical role in protecting, maintaining, and enhancing our natural resources-helping ensure a healthy environment for people and wildlife, now and in the future. Our Permitting Service is central to this mission. By robustly assessing applications for a wide range of regulated activities, we reduce environmental risks, support sustainable economic growth, and promote responsible behaviour across Wales.

Though small in size, our department has a broad reach, made up of eight expert teams working collaboratively to share knowledge and drive best practice:
Water Resources Water Quality Waste Installations & Radioactive Substances Marine Licensing Species Licensing Forestry Permit Delivery

Your role will sit within the Marine Licensing Team , where you'll help regulate some of the most complex and environmentally significant activities taking place in Welsh waters. What you will do Determination of applications for Marine Licences of high public and / or political interest, managing effective communication with all interested parties, including government and national stakeholder groups. Analyses highly complex data and information to inform and assist policy and legal colleagues within your area of expertise.

Build effective working relationships with key individuals within NRW and other UK Competent Authorities to ensure that the value of Permitting to our regulatory role is maximised. Take responsibility to ensure that the work of the Marine Licensing Team is clearly documented and that decisions taken on licence applications are transparent and consistent. Ensure that the Marine Licensing Team have the required tools and skills to ensure fair and consistent approach to decision making in line with our legal remit.

Ensure that the Marine Licensing Team delivers appropriate decisions on licence applications within the statutory timelines by monitoring progress against targets, identifying risks to delivery and managing…